As the Swiss national ice hockey team prepares for their upcoming match against Finland, players have made remarks that highlight both respect and competitiveness. Nino Niederreiter of the Winnipeg Jets stated that Finland is definitely the favorite in the matchup, citing their strong placement in the playoffs and impressive team roster. He emphasized the high expectations surrounding Finland's historically strong performance in international tournaments.

Roman Josi from the Nashville Predators echoed these sentiments, recognizing Finland's formidable lineup and track record in tournaments like the World Championships and Olympics. He mentioned the strength of the Finnish team, which is composed entirely of NHL players, contrasting with Switzerland's roster that, while competitive, is not as deeply rooted in the NHL. Josi's comments suggest a recognition of the prowess of Finnish ice hockey while also signaling the readiness of the Swiss team to compete fiercely.

The article underscores the tension and excitement leading up to the game, where the Swiss team, though aware of Finland's strengths, maintains a sense of confidence in their abilities. With both teams having strong credentials, the anticipation builds around how the match will unfold, especially given the competitive nature of international ice hockey.